Les Sables d'Olonne / La Tranche-sur-Mer
In this fairytale setting are both Les Sables (world capital of yacht racing) and La Rochelle, (the ‘broken rebel’ capital of Aunis) centre stage. The Vendéenne coast brings the cycle routes back to the Poitevin Marshes. Once past the Sèvre Niortaise River, we find ourselves at Charente-Maritime and the Marans canal which leads straight to the Old Port. After Saint-Vincent-sur-Jard, La Vélodyssée winds its way into the large national forest of Longeville, drawing close to the sea on two occasions from where beautiful beaches can easily be accessed, such as Les Conches. A quick dip is a must on this stage!
Gradients and elevation
Road types
Surface
Itinerary
Beautiful stage, accessible to all, alternating small lanes with designated cycle lanes.
Caution: Be careful in the commune of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire at the place known as ‘Cul d'Ane’, the track is submersible during high tide (under water from a coefficient of around 110, varies according to weather conditions).
Spot the signs!
I found some of the route labels hard to see on this section and managed to get lost or simply miss the signs a few times. But the route through the woodlands is beautiful. This section is quite long so make sure that you have plenty of water to sustain you!